by Garrison KeillorMy dad used to play Garrison Keillor tapes for our family when we went on our car trips. My brother and I loved them--the Living Flag story where everyone in town has to be involved to get it done but then nobody can see it so they have to take turns going up to the top of the hospital to get a look, the over-dramatized story of Jim the Ant, the African safari gone awry. Keillor's voice was soothing and strong. We clung to his deep breaths, not being able to wait for what was next.
I had never read anything by him until Pontoon. I wanted to quote half of it, it was that hilarious and unique.
Keillor takes the time to really introduce you to every character so you understand who they are and all the little things in life that motivate them. Evelyn is the first and she passes away all too quickly but thank God she asked to be cremated and her remains dropped in the lake in a hollowed out bowling ball. It's almost too much for the good Lutherans to handle.
The drama is understated and delicious. Keillor's subtle humor is enough to make you burst out laughing no matter where you are. And the showdown at the end is absolutely ridiculous.
General consensus: The most satisfying humorous book I've read since Bill Bryson's The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid.
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